That +1 may land your picture in Google ads

In its new user terms and conditions, Google announces that starting Nov. 11, it may place the photos and names of Google+ users in online ad campaigns, through the form of their endorsements (+1s) or recommendations. Users with privacy concerns should rest assured: there is a simple way to opt out.

Any recommendation or “+1”³ (an endorsement similar to a Facebook “Like”) concerning a brand, place or event could in theory be used in a Google ad. This means that the profiles of Google+ users could very well appear directly in online advertisements, complete with names and photos.

However, Google is giving users the option to stay out of its ads. On the “Account” page, users can click on “Google+,” then “Edit” next to “Shared Endorsements.” From there, users can simply untick the box next to the statement “Based upon my activity, Google may show my name and profile photo in shared endorsements that appear in ads,” and then press the “Save” button.

Google specifies that its advertisements will not use the endorsements or recommendations of its users who have reported being under 18 years of age.